Despite current technology, one of the more time consuming tasks that remains for a CPA is getting a signature for a document. That is why the fax machine, with earlier machines developed before the phone, remains with us still today. This post continues where a previous post on exchanging files left off.

(Disclaimer: The following are some ways to get a digital signature, just be aware that there may be legal requirements within each state that you may need to look at. In general because of the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act of 1999 you should be able to use the electronic signature for your CPA needs.)

Using a Service. This is the easiest and the best option in terms of making sure the signature you receive can be trusted. Considering the time you could save this option, even though costing some money, this can really be worth it.

There are a number of services available to you. Here is one you can look at as an example of what you can expect. It is called EchoSign and is used by larger companies such as Dell, PayPal, and HP.

How the Service Works.

• Upload the document.
• Enter the email of the client with a description or helpful details.
• They receive the email, click to sign, and send it back.
• Here is a link to a full description. This works great for contracts as it cuts down on the time it takes to get the contract signed.

If you are a really small firm and only need 5 signatures in a month then the service is free. Otherwise the service starts at $14.95 a month and can be worth it if you only use it for the busiest part of the year and then discontinue.

Integrates with Google Docs. If you have a website with CPA Site Solutions and use the Workteam Collaboration Suite, then you have access to Google Docs. EchoSign integrates well with all the existing documents you may have online.

An online service such as EchoSign is only one way to get signatures from a client. Look for upcoming posts reviewing some PDF alternatives and some fun ways to use images of signatures.

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